Choosing a Career, American Academy of Forensic Sciences, choosing a career.#Choosing #a #career

American Academy of Forensic Sciences

A professional society dedicated to the application of science to the law

Choosing a Career

Below is a guide to the many possibilities for satisfying life choices of careers combining science and service in the interests of society, justice, and public safety.

If you have additional questions regarding choosing a career, forensic science in general, or membership with AAFS, please contact: [email protected]

Download PDF version of Career Brochure HERE.

WELCOME TO THE FASCINATING WORLD OF FORENSIC SCIENCE

The word forensic comes from the Latin word forensis: public; to the forum or public discussion; argumentative, rhetorical, belonging to debate or discussion.

What Do Forensic Scientists Do?

The forensic sciences form a vital part of the entire justice and ­regulatory system. The forensic scientist s goal is the ­evenhanded use of all available information to determine the facts and, subsequently, the truth.

What s a Forensic Scientist?

A forensic scientist is first a scientist. When a scientist s knowledge is used to help lawyers, juries, and judges understand the results of scientific tests, the scientist becomes a forensic scientist.

Kinds of Forensic Science: Discipline Sections Within the American Academy of Forensic Sciences

The American Academy of Forensic Sciences, the largest forensic science organization in the world, is composed of over 7,000 scientists organized into eleven sections representing the different areas of interest, activity, education, and expertise of individual members.

How Do I Become a Forensic Scientist?

You will need a bachelor s degree (possibly an advanced degree), good note-taking and observation skills, and intellectual curiosity.

How Much Money Will I Make?

Income in the forensic sciences varies greatly depending upon your degree, your actual job, where you work, and how many hours you work. Every branch or forensic science offers opportunity for ­personal growth, career advancement, and increasing financial ­compensation.

Where Will I Work?

Forensic scientists work in laboratories, at crime scenes, in offices, in classrooms, and in morgues.

For information about the folks who brought you this information, the Forensic Sciences Foundation, Incorporated, click HERE.